What Are the Consequences of Not Appearing for My DUI Charges in Chicago?

Chicago Boating DUI Attorney

Every day, Chicago drivers are pulled over, arrested, and charged with driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Most charges are based on a driver having a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) higher than the legal limit to operate a vehicle or police believe the driver to be otherwise impaired.

If you’re faced with DUI charges, your best shot at protecting yourself from the personal, social, and professional consequences of being convicted of a DUI is to find a reputable DUI law firm to represent and defend you.

Drivers charged with a DUI face numerous penalties that include fines, license suspensions, and even jail time. The penalties can vary depending on the severity of the charges and whether you are a repeat offender. 

When you are charged with a DUI, you will be provided a hearing date for your arraignment. If you fail to attend your initial hearing date, you need to take immediate action as there may be a warrant out for your arrest. There are serious and significant consequences of not showing up for your assigned court dates and it is highly recommended that you hire an attorney as soon as possible to help you navigate through this situation. 

If you already missed a hearing, here are some things you need to know: 

  • There May be a Chance for a Re-Notice

If you are lucky and the judge is feeling merciful he or she may give you an additional date to appear for your hearing or court date. If this happens, do not miss this second opportunity. It’s highly recommended that you bring an attorney with you to that hearing. You will likely need them to help explain why you were unable to attend the first hearing in a way that satisfies the judge so they don’t hold it against you. 

  • Your Driving Privileges May be Suspended for Failing to Appear in Court

If you fail to appear for you court date and judgement is entered against you the Clerk of the Circuit Court will send notice to the Illinois Secretary of State informing them that you have failed to appear for court.  The Illinois Secretary of State will then suspend your driver’s license for failing to appear.  Once this suspension is on your Illinois Driving Record it must be corrected through the court system before you will be able to legally drive again.

  •  You May Be Arrested

If you fail to appear for court the judge will most likely issue an arrest warrant.  If you are stopped by police and you have an active warrant you may be taken to jail, forced to post a bond, or taken before a judge.  This is very serious and you need to speak with an attorney immediately about a plan for turning yourself in and working through your DUI charges.

What Do I Do After Failing to Appear for My DUI Charge Hearing?

As you can see, successfully defending your DUI charges becomes more difficult if you fail to appear for your hearings. If you fail to appear, you’ll certainly need to find a reliable DUI firm with qualified and experienced lawyers. If you’re a Chicago resident, there is no better DUI firm than G&S DUI Attorneys at Law https://duichicago.com/.

Contact us at (312) 500-2992 or find us on the following social media platforms:

G&S DUI Attorneys at Law

33 N Dearborn St #1950

Chicago IL 60602

(312) 500-2992

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Dustin Smith - Chicago DUI Attorney

Dustin SmithDUI Attorney

We understand people make mistakes, so we will fight to get your life back on track. I have leveraged both Dustin and Mike when I needed legal support in the past 2 years. They are able to explain the situation and choices in terms I can understand. They offer the same advice they would give their own sons or daughters. I can trust them to be honest with me and I know they have my best interest in mind. I have actually referred them to many friends who needed legal support. You will be in good hands with either of them.

~ Jorie Novak

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